Cosmetics Wonderland

New York Fashion Week!

2009-09-22T22:22:00.000-07:00

New York Fashion Week Review: 5 Hot Designers and Their New Spring 2010 Collections

"With New York Fashion Week concluding once again, it's time to review our favorite designer collections for Spring 2010. Here are my top five picks of the week.

Christian Siriano Spring 2010 Collection: Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Review

"Christian Siriano's Spring 2010 Collection did not disappoint! Here's my take on the hit designer's Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week show."

Halloween Makeup Tips!

2009-09-22T22:19:00.000-07:00

I've neglected to post links to my latest beauty and fashion articles, so here goes. :)

Ten Fairy Makeup Tips for a Halloween Costume

"Looking for an excuse on Halloween to be beautiful with elegant makeup and extra glitter? How about dressing up like a fairy! Here's a list of ten tips for applying fairy makeup as part of a Halloween costume."

Ten Cat Makeup Tips for a Halloween Costume

"What's beautiful, alluring and a bit mischievous? How about a cat-inspired makeup look for Halloween! Here's a list of ten tips for applying cat makeup. Add your favorite feline accessories to this makeup look and you're set."

Fall Makeup Pictures: 5 Fun Looks

2009-08-24T21:05:00.000-07:00

Fall Makeup Pictures: 5 Recommended Looks (Listing Brands & Colors Too!)

"Here are five inexpensive makeup looks for this fine fall season, including recommendations on what products and techniques will help achieve the desired results. As always, adjust the ideas according to your specific coloring and preferences."

Homecoming Makeup!

2009-08-19T12:49:00.000-07:00

DIY Makeup Tips for Homecoming: Elegant Results for Fall Formals

"Who doesn't want to look her best for the big homecoming dance? Here are some simple tips to help keep your homecoming look in style and on budget. Good luck!"

Mineral Makeup on a Budget: Best Foundations

2009-08-08T16:16:00.000-07:00

"With mineral makeup foundation, you don't have to pay a fortune to have your skin look and feel great. Here are some of the top picks when it comes to buying skin care coverage on a budget." Read the article here.

Free Bare Escentuals if You Pay $1 Shipping

2009-08-03T16:09:00.000-07:00

From Fat Wallet:

"Bare Escentuals offers a 10-day supply of their BareMinerals Matte SPF 15 Foundation + Mini-buki Brush for Free. You may order up to 3 samples per order, as long as they are different shades. Shipping is $1 for all 3."

My Bad! :)

2009-07-28T17:33:00.001-07:00

So, I'm not sure for how many weeks I've missed posting a favorite youtube channel of the week. Umm, ya, I could look it up but who wants to do that? :)

My apologies and I'll have to think of some good ones to post in the future.

Free Lip Balm with Purchase at Bath & Body Works

2009-07-18T10:35:00.000-07:00

Here's a coupon for a free Lip Item with any purchase (up to a $12 value), valid through July 19 in stores only while supplies last.

Product Reviews: L'Oreal EverPure & John Frieda Brilliant Collection

2009-07-16T17:46:00.000-07:00

I'm still working on my reviews for Nivea, Caress, and Bodycology body washes. But I did finally write what I think of the two following collections. Hope you enjoy. :)

Shampoo & Conditioner Product Reviews: L'Oreal EverPure Sulfate-Free Color Care System & John Frieda Collection Brilliant Brunette New Liquid Shine
"A collection of candid product reviews for two sets of shampoos and conditioners I've recently sampled: L'Oreal EverPure Sulfate-Free Color Care System and John Frieda Collection Brilliant Brunette New Liquid Shine."

I'm on Facebook! :)

2009-07-14T21:27:00.001-07:00

So I started a makeup page on facebook. I was really creative with the title: "Elizabeth's Beauty & Fashion Tips." Hehe. If you're on facebook, I'd love to be added. Hint, hint. :) Thanks!

Deal for the Sephora Folk . . .

2009-07-13T11:42:00.000-07:00

From the Sephora Inside JCPenney newsletter:

"Get fresh faced! Try Philosophy's foaming cleanser--FREE! Enter code JCPPURITY at checkout.*

"*Enter code JCPPURITY in the promotion code box during checkout to receive the sample with any online merchandise order. This offer is valid while supplies last. Not valid in stores or on previous purchases, nor with purchase of eGift Certificates or Gift Cards. Cannot be used in conjunction with other promotion codes.

"Heard it from a friend? Get on the list and sign up to receive store coupons and online offers! Click here to be the first to know."

Featured Youtube Channel of the Week: Pixiwoo

2009-07-11T18:18:00.001-07:00

Pixiwoo, home of UK makeup artists Samantha and Nicola, is a great cosmetics channel full of celebrity makeup tutorials, style advice, and more.

Samantha even inspired me to do a Sophia Loren look with my eye liner today. Ha ha, I might do it again tomorrow, but I'm not sure it's extremely appropriate for my Church look. We'll have to see. :)

P.S. After day three of thinking about doing Summer Makeup when getting ready, I've realized that I'm not all that suited for summer anyway. I like snow, and wearing long pants, and keeping my hair down--things that aren't that conducive when it's hot out. So I gave myself a break today and went for blacks and greens. I'm ready for it to be cool again. Hehe.

Yay for Summer Makeup!

2009-07-11T06:15:00.000-07:00

So I finally pulled out all the Summer Makeup stops. :) Thank you Johnny Lavoy!

My Friday night just wouldn't have been the same if I hadn't worn pink and green eye shadows, pink blush, and a bright pink lipstick (which I mostly wiped off since it was a little much).

I don't think my nephew actually noticed, but you know, it's the principle that matters. And I was definitely made up for summer! :)

Using a Diffuser to Blow Dry Hair

2009-07-10T13:36:00.000-07:00

This is something I didn't really pick up until recently, but now I'm loving it! I can't get enough of diffusing my hair. I've only straightened my hair like once in the past few weeks, and even then I lamented not having let it go wavy with the diffuser. :) It's not just for straight-up curly-haired girls like I once imagined. You might want to give it a try.

Blow Drying Your Hair with a Diffuser
"I didn't realize until recently how effective blow drying my hair with a diffuser really is. Here's my experience with using a diffuser, learning online from Cibu's hair care pro Jennifer Mapp."

(Image Credit: lusi© sxc.hu/lusi. Yes, I realize that's not a diffuser in the picture, but it fit the best of what I could find. Hehe.)

Product Review: John Frieda Root Awakening

2009-07-10T12:34:00.000-07:00

Here's my full product review of John Frieda's Root Awakening Shampoo and Conditioner.

I've also recently sampled Nivea's new Touch of Happiness Body Wash as well as Caress' new Exfoliating Body Wash. Maybe I'll wait to review those until I try my new Bodycology samples and then I'll do a write up of all three of them. How does that sound? :) For now I'll just tell you I didn't really care for the Nivea but I liked the Caress.

John Frieda Collection Root Awakening Strength Restoring Shampoo and Conditioner "Interested in trying out John Frieda's Root Awakening Collection but want someone else's take on it first? Here's my opinion after sampling the Root Awakening Shampoo and Conditioner."

John Frieda Product Review (Quick Take) & Summer Makeup Update

2009-07-08T00:41:00.000-07:00

You're going to be so proud of me for two reasons!

(1) I actually used my John Frieda Root Awakening Shampoo and Conditioner samples today! I know, unbelievable--they've been sitting on my ledge now for almost a month. But I broke down, tried them, and wrote an official product review for Associated Content. So when that gets posted in a week or so I'll put the direct link up here.

In the mean time, and in short: it's gonna have to be a no from me. The shampoo was an all-around no, but the conditioner would have been really nice if it hadn't have been for that eucalyptus smell. Maybe people love that scent. I don't know. Maybe the problem lies within me. Hehe, either way, I'm not going to be purchasing it in the near future.

(2) I've gotten into the spirit of summer makeup! I still haven't branched out into using any crazy colors, but I've been wearing a lot of bronzer. Sure, it looks kind of freaky since I'm pasty white everywhere else, but what ya gonna do? :)

But since I've been accomplishing so much lately, i.e. I wore bronzer and tried a new shampoo, I figure wearing crazy makeup colors is really the next step for me. Good luck to us all! Ha.

(Image from a Google Search.)

Featured Youtube Channel of the Week: The Fray

2009-07-04T20:24:00.000-07:00

In another post about non-cosmetics youtube favorites, I pick The Fray. :) The band's channel is great and I'm currently obsessed with Heartless and How to Save a Life, featured below. (I know--circa 2006 for the rest of the world. What can I say, I'm slow. But get this: Wikipedia says it was released July 4, 2006. So really, this is an incredibly timed tribute, so there! Hehe.)

Besides, this is the perfect gearing up for the American Idol tour which starts tomorrow since Matt Giraud is probably singing The Fray's You Found Me.

Happy July 4th!

2009-07-04T13:53:00.000-07:00

I hope you're having a great day and living it up! :)

(Font downloaded from 1001Fonts.com)

Free Bath & Body Works with Purchase!

2009-07-03T10:53:00.000-07:00

Coupon Cravings posted about a free offer from Bath & Body Works.

"Take this printable coupon to Bath & Body Works to get a FREE Anti-Bacterial Foaming Hand Sanitizer (a $4 value) with any purchase. This coupon is valid through 7/5."

And a user of the site commented:

"The little gel hand sanitizers are on sale for $1 ea with any purchase. I went today and got one of those and the foaming hand sanitizer with the coupon for $1.07 total!"

Great deal if you're in the market!

For the MAC Lovers! :)

2009-07-01T14:16:00.000-07:00

Free Lipstick if you use MAC Cosmetics
"MAC offers a free lipstick of your choice when you return 6 empty MAC cosmetic containers to a MAC counter or online. More information on the MAC recycling program can be found here." (From Wendi the Freebie Blogger.)

Cosmetics Sales!

2009-06-29T21:36:00.000-07:00

Walgreens runs weekly sales on various cosmetics. This is what's in my local ad for this week (which can be different from region to region so make sure to double check for your area).

Rimmel Lip and Eye Cosmetics:
Buy One Get One Free thru July 4.

Sally Hansen:
40% Off thru July 4.

Pond's Skin Care:
33% Off thru July 4.

Olay Complete Skin Care:
Buy One Get One 50% Off thru July 4.

L’Oréal Lip and Nail Cosmetics:
Buy One Get One Free thru July 4.

Featured Youtube Channel of the Week: The Style Diet

2009-06-27T00:00:00.000-07:00

TheStyleDiet

The 21-year old is an aspiring fashion stylist. Anna does videos on "fashion trends, style tips and fashion/accessories hauls" while also throwing in "some beauty hauls and reviews." She's a gorgeous girl with some great instincts.

Product Review: L'Oreal Revitalift Cream

2009-06-25T20:54:00.001-07:00

I got a free sample of L'Oreal's Revitalift but I threw away the package and didn't write down exactly what it's called. I know, shame on me! :) I think it was Revitalift Day Anti-Wrinkle Cream, something like that, but I'm not actually a hundred-percent on the name.

But, I tried the sample and it was super, super thick. I thought I'd love it, and it would rejuvenate my skin in a whole new way, but my skin did not absorb it well at all. It just stayed on the surface and it didn't do anything. After I waited awhile and still nothing happened, I ended up just washing it off. This may be some sort of wacky personal skin thing that I have and don't know about, but I would not buy the Revitalift based on my sampling results. Just a heads up if you're looking into it--it may not work for everyone. :)

(Image from a Google Search.)

Cosmetic Surgery Digitally

2009-06-24T11:14:00.000-07:00

I posted this on my photo blog too, but in case you only see this one, here goes. Hehe.

Here it is, the article you've been waiting for: "How to Digitally Lose 10 Pounds, Rewind 10 Years, and Get the Look You've Always Wanted." :) As I say in the article, even if you're not seriously entertaining the idea of getting plastic surgery, it can still be fun to digitally alter pictures and see how your look can change.

And if you are actually interested in getting some procedures done, it can be helpful to digitally play around with settings on your own in addition to whatever your doctor will provide.

Photo Editing Tutorial: Digital Cosmetic Surgery
"Digital Cosmetic Surgery made easy with the help of editing programs like Adobe Photoshop and GIMP. How to get the surgical results you want in your digital pictures."

Favorite Makeup Brands

2009-06-23T12:19:00.000-07:00

I've tried a lot of drugstore brands of makeup. In fact, I honestly don't know of a drugstore brand I haven't tried. :) Here are my favorites for various types of products.

Mascara: Hands-down L'Oreal!

Eye Shadow: CoverGirl

Eye Liner: L'Oreal (for microliners) and N.Y.C. (for regulars)

Foundation: L'Oreal

Concealer: CoverGirl

Blush: Jordana (for current favorite) and N.Y.C. (for longtime favorite)

Bronzer: Bonne Bell

Face Moisturizer: Neutrogena

Body Lotion: Jergens

Perfume: Candies Original

Lipstick: N.Y.C.

Lipgloss: N.Y.C.

Nail Polish: Wet 'n Wild

(Image from lusi on Stock.Xchng)

Summer Makeup!

2009-06-22T22:44:00.000-07:00

I was just watching a Johnny Lavoy something and he was talking about how summer's the perfect time to experiment with colors. So, I guess we should really be taking advantage of this wonderful opportunity. Hehe. Come on girls (and guys) let's make this happen! :) Summer makeup on three. 1, 2, 3, SUMMER MAKEUP!

I found some purple eyeliner in my drawer today, I guess the next step is actually putting it on. :) I'll report in how my Summer Makeup project is doing when I have updates.

P.S. I forgot to use my John Frieda samples. I know, it's horrible! I straightened my hair and everything yesterday, but I just used my regular Matrix-wannabe serum from Suave. I'm sorry. Product review still to come.

Youtube Channel of the Week: Blair's Juicystar07

2009-06-20T18:33:00.000-07:00

Blair, aka Juicystar07, is apparently the sister of allthatglitters21. I'm not sure how since Blair says she's half Turkish, but that'll just have to stay one of life's great mysteries. Unless allthatglitters21 is half Turkish too, but I'm not going to pretend to know anything about that. :)

Blair's got some great makeup and hair tutorials, and she's the 53rd All Time Most Subscribed Guru on Youtube, which is pretty noteworthy. You can check out her channel if you're interested in finding out more.

Product Review: Harajuku Lovers Fragrances--Music, G, & Lil' Angel

2009-06-20T18:13:00.000-07:00

I bet you thought I was never getting back to those final three Harajuku Lovers fragrances after my first two not-so-positive installments. Well, I finally broke down and sampled the rest, just for you. :)

Music is advertised as sparkling, yummy, and juicy. To me, it really smells like Skittles. So, if that's the sweet kind of scent you want, by all means, grab it!

G is branded as tropical, sunny, and delicious. I think it translated fairly well--it smells like tropical coconuts. It's actually a very pleasant scent. I think it's still a little too sweet for my personal tastes, but it's nice.

I can't even find words to describe Lil' Angel. Marketed as colorful, tasty, and sweet, I can't think of a word to use besides nasty. Perhaps my sample was wrongly contaminated, but it was really gross. Sorry if you love it. :)

So here are my Harajuku Lovers rankings:

First Place: G

Second Place: Music

Third Place: Love

Fourth Place: Baby*

Fifth Place: Lil' Angel

*Baby has to beat out Lil' Angel for me since smelling like baby powder really may be a goal for someone, whereas smelling unpleasant likely isn't one for perfume purchasers. Hehe. That's my take at least.

(Image from Google Search.)

Product Reviews: Top Five Face Cosmetics

2009-06-19T10:08:00.000-07:00

Here's my rundown of top five face cosmetics, including moisturizers, foundations, concealers, and bronzers from trusted brands like Neutrogena, L'Oreal, CoverGirl, and Bonne Bell. Check out the article to read my top picks. :)

Top Five Face Cosmetics (From Drugstore Brands) for Great Looking Skin
"If I could only have five cosmetic products for face care, this is the set of items that I would choose in order to achieve flawless, even, and natural-looking skin."

(Image from dreamjay on Stock.Xchng)

John Frieda Samples!

2009-06-18T15:15:00.000-07:00

I got some John Frieda samples in the mail today. Yay! Hopefully you did too, or will soon be getting them. :)

I'll have to use them and report back what I thought. I might end up waiting to use them until I actually do my makeup and fully get ready, which pretty much isn't going to happen until Sunday. He he.

Top Foundations and Other Skin Cosmetics

2009-06-16T23:27:00.000-07:00

I have a very exciting (okay, maybe not really) post coming up talking about my five favorite cosmetic products for skin coverage. I have to wait to post it until the other site publishes it, which may take forever. But I'll give you a hint in that I mentioned this product below: L'Oreal's Feel Naturale Light Softening One-Step Makeup. The skin results are beautiful! Just beautiful! :)

Youtube Channel of the Week: Truggy

2009-06-13T20:03:00.000-07:00

Okay, so this channel isn't really cosmetics-related, but I can't stop watching "Miss Misery" either way. Here's Alex Wagner-Trugman (of American Idol Season 8's Top 36) Youtube channel filled with a handful of amazing covers.

Truggy

Warning: The videos might make you kind of feel like a peeping Tom, spying into some poor college boy's bedroom. But if you can get past that, the songs really are spectacular. Oh and when I watch "Miss Misery," I fast forward like the first 30 seconds of talking. No offense Alex! Ha ha. But just to give everyone else a heads up. :)

Product Review: Celine Dion's Fragrance Sensational

2009-06-11T21:56:00.000-07:00

In an attempt to further prolong sampling the other Harajuku fragrances, today I tested out instead my sample of Celine Dion Sensational. :) And guess what! I actually kind of liked it!

It's a very mild but pleasant scent--a little flowery but not too strong. If you're looking for more than just a hint of fragrance, it might be too light for you though. It's a very subtle scent.

But for those who want just a hint of perfume, it might actually be something to look into at your local perfume counter.

(Image from a Google Search.)

Curling Hair with a Flat Iron!!!

2009-06-09T00:10:00.000-07:00

Why did nobody tell me before that this is possible? I just found out!! :) For those of you who don't already know this trick, it might blow your mind! I'm not even joking. It's crazy! I'll report in later, when I shouldn't already be in bed. :)

UPDATED: Bedtime didn't take. Here goes . . .

I'm reluctant to post the youtube video I saw because the model getting her hair done really needed to (1) pull up her shirt or (2) get a new shirt. :) But I don't want to blindly recommend another tutorial in case someone else doesn't explain it as well as this one stylist.

UPDATED AGAIN: Okay, this little girl's video will do the job. :) It's not exactly the same, but you'll get the basic idea.

P.S. It just occurred to me a few days ago that when I publish and then edit and republish a post, perhaps a subscriber would get two emails. Is that really what happens? Because that seems super annoying. But what do you do, not edit posts you know need corrected? I guess I should do a better job of making sure things are right the first time. :) My apologies!

Youtube Channel of the Week: FloridaSweetyPie

2009-06-06T19:54:00.000-07:00

I've got to give a shout out this week to Barbara, aka FloridaSweetyPie.

She's from New York but lives in Miami with her husband. She does great product reviews and is very resourceful in finding quality products at affordable prices. She is very relatable, has a lot of great insights, and is hilarious--what more could you want? :)

Cibu Brand Explained

2009-06-05T22:35:00.000-07:00

Last week I listed Jenn Mapp's Cibu17 Youtube Channel as my pick for Channel of the Week. But, perhaps you haven't heard of the brand Cibu. Here's an article I wrote reviewing the trendy hair care line along with its diverse product offerings and online presence.

Company Overview

"Cibu markets itself as 'Ancient Secrets for Modern Hair.' Stylists from Cibu's parent company, Bubbles Hair Salon, actually created the hair care line themselves. Jennifer Mapp is the current Cibu Brand Manager and maintains a mutually beneficial relationship with Christian Siriano, famed fashion designer and former Bubbles Hair Salon employee.

"In fact, Siriano chose the Cibu brand for his fashion week debut, a fact that will likely go noticed if improperly credited. Proof that Jenn Mapp does her homework: after being wrongly overlooked by a style magazine, her company blog featured a new post, 'No Cibu Love for Modern Salon Magazine.'

"Cibu hair products can be purchased at participating salons, in particular, at Bubbles Salons (which unfortunately service only Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington, D.C according to the Bubbles Salon Locator). Brick-and-mortar locations may be few and far between, but Cibu products can be internationally purchased online. For full product and shipping details, you can visit the company's homepage at Cibu International."

Continue reading article for details on Cibu's product offerings and online presence.

(Image from Cibu International.)

Product Review: Suave Leave-In Cream

2009-06-05T02:47:00.000-07:00

A few days ago I posted a glowing review of Sunsilk's Straighten-Up Leave-In Cream. Because I'm cheap, I tried to buy a similar product in Suave. :)

I picked up Suave Professionals Sleek Anti-Frizz Cream. The label says it's actually a comparable product to L'Oreal's Matrix Styling Creme, which I haven't personally used. The product idea is to transform "frizzy, curly or dry hair" into "smooth, manageable hair in no time," and I was completely satisfied.

I pretty much equally love the results of the Suave product in comparison to the Sunsilk Leave-In. The only thing is that I think the Suave might be a tiny bit weightier than the Sunsilk, i.e., it weighs my hair down more using the same technique and product amount.

That won't discourage me from buying it, it just makes it more important to pay attention to what I'm doing when applying the cream. :) But I really do love it for styling my hair straight. It does a great job of managing hairs, minimizing frizz, and adding overall sleekness.

(Image from a Google Search.)

Blog Background

2009-06-03T23:43:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure if the background will stay like this, but I just wanted to give proper credit in the mean time. :)

I got the original makeup photograph from Val-J at Stock.Xchng. And the Swingset BB font from 1001 Fonts. Then I put everything together in GIMP.

Article: 5-Minute Makeup Makeover

2009-06-02T12:29:00.000-07:00

How to Do a Five-Minute Makeup Makeover

"In general, we want to look good. Whether we're going to the office, running errands, or just staying at home, most of us want to be able to pass by the mirror and not cover in shame. It's a simple enough task, but we're not always willing to sacrifice a lot of time and energy in order to accomplish it.

"Some equate having a polished look with spending hours getting ready. That need not be the case with a few quick fixes. Of course there are times when we want our makeup to look exquisite and we'll put a bit more effort in. But for busy days when all we need is a small pick-me-up, here are some basic steps in getting the most out of a five-minute makeover.

Skin Care

"Nice looking skin is the first step in creating any type of put-together look. In all actuality, the best thing you can do for your skin to look good is to be healthy. That includes getting enough sleep at night and drinking enough water during the day. Rested and hydrated skin is undoubtedly going to give you a better base to work with when applying makeup. Hydration is most effective from the inside-out. Do all you can to take care of yourself and your skin in order to optimize your personal beauty.

"Use a facial cream to topically moisturize skin. Add a layer of foundation; whether it's liquid, powder, or cream is up to you. If you have some notable blemishes or imperfections, add spot concealer to the troublesome areas. Setting your foundation and concealer with additional powder is entirely subjective when doing a five-minute face. You may or may not feel it's necessary. . . .
Continue reading article for tips on eyes, cheeks, and lips.

Product Review: Sunsilk Straighten-Up Leave-In Cream

2009-06-02T00:02:00.000-07:00

SunSilk Straight to Perfection Straighten-Up 24/7 Heat Defense Cream: "Smooth things out for satin-straight hair with elastyn-e."

The hair cream is part of Sunsilk's "Straight to Perfection Collection" to be used in accordance with the matching shampoo and conditioner, and it's safe for color-treated hair.

I haven't tried my shampoo and conditioner free samples yet, but I absolutely LOVED the Sunsilk Straighten-up leave-in cream. I used it as a replacement for my normal leave-in conditioner Infusium as well as for a styling aid in making my hair sleek and straight.

I naturally have a wave to my hair and this product was instrumental in giving me a nice and smooth foundation to build on. If Sunsilk is in your price range, and straight and sleek is the look you're going for, I'd highly recommend this product. :)

Product Review: Harajuku Lovers Perfume "Love"

2009-06-01T20:12:00.000-07:00

Like I posted about before, I received a free sample set of the "World of Harajuku Lovers Fragrance" in the mail containing 5 scents. I previously reviewed Baby and decided tonight to sample Love.

Advertised as "tender, romantic, [and] sensual," Love was just okay for me. I didn't think it was bad, but I didn't think it was great either--but it's definitely better than Baby. :) It's kind of flowery and reminds me of White Soldiers, but it has a bit of an "aftertaste" that I don't love.

And it seems like a ladies perfume to me, which is great if that's what you're going for. But I like to wear fragrances that are a bit more youthful.

I still have three scents to go in my Harajuku review, but so far it seems like the Lovers Collection is probably not for me. We'll see if that opinion changes. :)

(Image from a Google Search.)

Youtube Channel of the Week: "Cibu Loves You!"

2009-05-30T18:49:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty sure the hair care line Cibu has the coolest Brand Leader ever, Jenn Mapp. Under her Youtube Idle, Cibu17, she gives brand updates and offers as well as amazing hair tutorials. I'm telling you, whether you use Cibu or not, her videos are great! She's smart, talented, and hilarious. Check her page out some time!

Free Sample: From Burt's Bees!

2009-05-27T11:37:00.000-07:00

Free Burt’s Bees Lip Balm
Burt’s Bees is giving away free product coupons for either Beeswax Lip Balm (tube or tin), Honey Lip Balm, or Replenishing Pomegranate Lip Balm. This offer is available to the first 1,000 people to sign up each day starting at 9 AM ET. Offer ends 6/22/09. US and Puerto Rico.

Happy Memorial Day!

2009-05-25T17:13:00.000-07:00

Hope you're having a great day! :)

Youtube Channel of the Week: AllThatGlitters21

2009-05-23T19:02:00.000-07:00

AllThatGlitters21
A Beauty Channel full of makeup tutorials, hauls, and vlogs from a 20-year-old who loves to try new products and styles.

Product Review: Harajuku Lovers Baby Perfume

2009-05-23T16:39:00.000-07:00

I received a sample set of the "World of Harajuku Lovers Fragrance" in the mail. It contains 5 scents, only one of which I've yet sampled. Named "Baby" and described as "fresh, clean, soft," this perfume certainly lives up to the claim--it smells like Baby Powder to me. Personally, I don't want to smell like Baby Powder. Needless to say, I won't be purchasing this in the foreseeable future. But if that's your go-to fragrance, by all means, push ahead! :)

I'll report in later what I think about the other scents.

(Image from a Google Search.)

Free Sample: Beeswax!

2009-05-23T16:30:00.000-07:00

Free Moisturizing Beeswax Salve Sample
"Get a free sample of Stassels’ Moisturizing Beeswax Salve. Send your request with your shipping information to lsiemek@yahoo.com."

*Don't forget the first rule when applying for free samples: "Set up an Email Account Strictly for Free Samples."

Read more tips here: "How to Get Free Samples Without All the Spam"

Free Cosmetic Samples!

2009-05-21T23:24:00.000-07:00

Free Exuviance Anti-Aging Skin Care Sample
"Exuviance.com is offering a free anti-aging skin care sample for oily skin."

Free Garnier Ultra-Lift Pro Skin Care Sample
"Walmart is offering a free sample of Garnier Ultra-Lift Pro Deep Wrinkle Cream with SPF 20."

Article: Looking at Eyebrow Color When Dyeing Hair

2009-05-20T11:34:00.000-07:00

"It can be so convenient and cost-effective to dye your own hair. Here's a guide in resolving the eyebrow-color dilemma when dyeing your hair at home." "What to Do with Eyebrow Color When Dye ing Your Own Hair"

Free Weleda Coupons: Skin and Hair Care

2009-05-19T01:46:00.000-07:00

"We are delighted to share some very special offers with you. Please print the coupons below, redeem and enjoy! And check back often as we continually update our exclusive savings for you." http://usa.weleda.com/our-products/special-offers.aspx

The printable coupons include:
$2 off 7.5-oz Weleda Calendula shampoo & body wash
$3 off 2.5-oz Weleda Skin Food body cream

Redeemable at Target, Whole Foods, and Select Health Food Stores

Product Review: Jergens Natural Glow

2009-05-18T19:30:00.000-07:00

I received a free sample in the mail of Jergens Natural Glow Healthy Complexion Daily Facial Moisturizer (which hopefully you got too since I posted the link to the Walmart free sample). It's UVA/UVB SPF 20 and is designed to gradually create natural-looking color as well as prevent premature aging and protect skin from everyday sun exposure. Oil-free, dermatologist-tested, lightweight, and non-comedogenic (meaning it doesn't tend to irritate acne).

I chose the shade "Fair to Medium Skin Tones" for my sample which turned out be a generous .7 fl oz portion (20 mL). I haven't finished the bottle yet, but notwithstanding, I don't think there will be any tremendous color results in the next few days. But, for a drugstore face lotion, I did like the product. So if you're in the market for an inexpensive face lotion with possible natural-looking color results, you might want to give Jergens Natural Glow Facial Moisturizer a try.

(Image from Jergens.)

An Aspirin Mask How-To

2009-05-18T17:44:00.000-07:00

Ms. ginabinawina99 details how to make an aspirin, honey, and avocado face mask. She rotates it in her skin care regime every other week.

Free Samples: Nivea, Dove, John Frieda

2009-05-16T19:02:00.000-07:00

Nivea Touch of Happiness Body Wash from Walmart
http://instoresnow.walmart.com/enhancedrendercontent_ektid70550.aspx

Dove Go Fresh Deodorant
https://secure.startsampling.com/sm/100660/captureAddress.iphtml?item=100660&source=&p=&key=b31d01922edd5401187394d5c52080ef (Copy and paste the link for it to work)

John Frieda Root Awakening Sample from Walmart
http://instoresnow.walmart.com/enhancedrendercontent_ektid69580.aspx

Youtube Channel of the Week: LovePeaceandLipGloss

2009-05-16T18:01:00.000-07:00

LovePeaceandLipGloss

A married, stay-at-home mother of 3 who loves make up and all things beauty related. She does tutorials, cosmetic hauls, product reviews, and more. She's as sweet as can be and has some amazing fashion instincts. Be sure to check out her page.

Free Samples: John Frieda, Aveeno

2009-05-16T17:00:00.000-07:00

John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Liquid Shine Sample from 95.5 WPLJ
http://www.wplj.com/goout.asp?u=http://www.johnfrieda.com/event.asp?eventcode=jf_djSample&action=entry&sod=WPLJ

AVEENO NOURISH+ Hair Care Collection Sample
http://startsampling.com/sm/100640/captureAddress.iphtml?item=100640&source=

Johnny Lavoy's Tricks for a Tired Eye

2009-05-16T16:58:00.001-07:00

Johnny Lavoy's tips including using a flesh-colored liner for the waterline and refrigerating makeup remover the night before.

Free Sample: Bodycology Bath and Body Products

2009-05-16T16:58:00.000-07:00

Bodycology Hand Soap, Lotion, and Mist from Walmart
http://instoresnow.walmart.com/enhancedrendercontent_ektid70742.aspx

Free Printable Coupons!

2009-05-16T16:57:00.000-07:00

$1 off Caress Body Wash or 6 pk. Bars

$2 off Hawaiian Tropic 3 oz or larger (excludes travel size, lip and stick)

$2 off Aveeno Sun Care (excludes trial sizes)

$2 off Dr. Scholl’s For Her Smooth My Sole Micro File

Free Samples: Sun Care, Eye Cream, Lotion

2009-05-16T16:55:00.000-07:00

Hawaiian Tropic Sun Care Sample from Walmart
"Walmart is offering a free sample of Hawaiian Tropic Sun Care After Sun Body Butter or Sheer Touch Lotion SPF 15."

Free Philosophy Eye Cream Sample
"Philosophy is offering a free anti-aging eye cream sample. You must be a Facebook user to request this freebie."

Free Boscia Moisturizer Travel Size Sample
"Get a free travel size sample of Boscia Moisturizer when you register using the code ALLURING."

Free Sample: L'Oreal Roots of Nature

2009-03-20T02:42:00.000-07:00

Visit Walmart's free sample page for a trial of L’Oreal Roots of Nature Strengthening Oil Moisturizer and Reconstructing Deep Treatment.

http://instoresnow.walmart.com/enhancedrendercontent_ektid68294.aspx

Airbrushing Article

2009-02-27T15:19:00.000-08:00

"How to Get Model-Perfect Skin in Your Digital Photos"

Beautiful Smoky Eyes!

2009-02-25T22:19:00.000-08:00

A how-to article I wrote on getting great "smoky eyes," featured on Associated Content. Click here to check it out!

And cheers! :)

Free Sample: Skin Cleansing Cloths

2009-02-09T07:36:00.000-08:00

Glacial Skin Cleansing Cloths
http://skyniceland.com/skyn-press/moremag.php

Tip: Cheryl Cole Inspired Makeup

2009-01-14T03:25:00.000-08:00

"Professional make-up artist Lara Golay with a step by step tutorial on how to get Cheryl Cole's look from Vogue, and how to vamp it up for the evening"

Free Lotion, Facial Tissue!

2009-01-14T03:18:00.000-08:00

Kerasal Foot Lotion
http://www.kerasal.com/challenge.shtml

Kleenex Facial Tissue with Lotion http://www.samsclubmemberservices.com/Events/Kleenex_LotionSample.aspx

Free Suave Coupon!

2009-01-14T03:16:00.000-08:00

Suave, sure it's not the highest quality brand ever, but when you're on a budget, some things have got to give. :)

So, today and today only, "Register on suave.com to receive a coupon for one (1) bottle of Suave Shampoo, Conditioner, Hair Spray, Styling Aid, BodyWash, or Body Lotion (good up to $3.00) by mail. Registration begins at 12:00:01 a.m. ET on January 14, 2009 and ends at 11:59:59 p.m. ET on January 14, 2009." http://www.suave.com/nomics/index.html

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-24T12:39:00.000-08:00

I hope whatever holidays you're celebrating this season are fantastic!

Glitterfy.com - Glitter Graphics

Tip: Easy Smokey Eyes

2008-12-17T17:52:00.000-08:00

"Beau Nelson's Essential Make-Up Tips: Easy Smokey Eyes"

Free Lotion and Shampoo Samples!

2008-12-17T17:45:00.000-08:00

Jergens Naturals Daily Moisturizer Sample
http://instoresnow.walmart.com/enhancedrendercontent_ektid51366.aspx

Pantene Shampoo and Conditioner
http://startsampling.com/sm/100508/captureAddress.iphtml?item=100508&source

Free Makeup Samples!

2008-12-17T17:42:00.000-08:00

Lipstock Chapstock Sample
http://www.lipstockist.com/sample.html

Fresh Mineral Cosmetics Samples
http://www.gsenterprises.net/requestSamples.html

Mary Kay Mascara Sample
http://www.marykay.com/carmel39/freesample/freesample.aspx

Tip: Leona Lewis Inspired Makeup

2008-12-17T17:40:00.000-08:00

Panacea81 from youtube, aka Lauren Luke, is a makeup artist that provides free tutorials on youtube, often showing celebrity how-to's but also displaying some original designs as well. Be sure to check her page out for more ideas.

Free Face Cream Samples!

2008-12-17T17:39:00.000-08:00

Anti-Aging Miracle Set from Mary Kay http://www.marykay.com/kathleen95652/freesample/freesample.aspx (Includes a sample of 3-in-1 Cleanser, Age-Fighting Moisturizer, Day Solution Sunscreen, and Night Solution all from Mary Kay's "TimeWise.")

Lancaster Anti-Aging Cream Sample
http://survey.email.coty.com/SensorPro/Run/SR.aspx?SurveyId=1838da45-ec77-4ee7-adbc-e6f45ea8050b&PageId=7b0fa50d-2d88-4e0b-adb5-09e1233b08ae&Ox=coty

Ponds Rejuveness Sample
http://www.univision.com/contentroot/uol/10portada/content/jhtml/plb/NOMETA_plb_ponds_rejuveness.jhtml (Form in Spanish)

Garnier Wrinkle Treatment http://instoresnow.walmart.com/enhancedrendercontent_ektid56658.aspx

Aveeno Night Cream Sample
https://www.aveeno.com/free-sample-lifting.jsp

Revitacil Wrinkle and Eye Cream 1 oz. Sample
http://www.nutritionaltree.com/samples/sample-giveaway-main.aspx

Tip: Urban Edge Makeup by Johnny Lavoy

2008-11-27T10:13:00.000-08:00

I just love Johnny Lavoy! He is a Ford Artist with the agency Ford Models. His style is impeccable and his tips are (almost) to die for! :)

Here are some of my favorites, courtesy of youtube. (You can also learn more at http://www.fordmodels.tv.)

Johnny Lavoy's "Urban Edge"

Yes!

2008-11-24T11:13:00.000-08:00

I'm up and running! :)

I love reading and learning new cosmetics tips and getting free samples of new products to try out. Hopefully they'll be some helpful links for you too on here, coming soon!